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CarCareTruthProducts · Ranked

Mineral Oil

  • Mineral oils
  • CAS 8042-47-5
  • IUPAC: Paraffin oil (light)

Mineral Oil (CAS 8042-47-5) appears in 20 of the 1,812 car-care products CarCareTruth tracks (as of June 2026).

Cosmetics-grade mineral oil is non-toxic. Not a skin sensitizer. The mist form (aerosolized) is a mild respiratory irritant with chronic exposure.

Mineral oil is a refined petroleum product used as a lubricant and carrier in compounds, polishes, and some dressings. In cutting compounds, it provides lubrication between the abrasive and the paint surface, reducing heat buildup and improving finish quality.

Cosmetics-grade (USP) mineral oil — which is what goes into car care products — is highly refined with carcinogenic PAHs removed. It's used in baby oil, food processing, and pharmaceutical products. Not a health concern in normal use.

Environmentally persistent (doesn't biodegrade quickly) but non-toxic. The main concern is large spills to waterways, not the tiny amounts in car care products.

Health & environment profile

VOC
no
Prop 65 listed
no
Asthmagen
no
EPA Safer Choice
no
Aquatic toxicity
no
Biodegradable
no
Bioaccumulative
no
Persistent
yes
Ozone depleting
no
Microplastic
no
PFAS
no
Env. score
3/5
Purpose: Lubrication, gloss enhancement, carrier

Common questions about Mineral Oil

What is Mineral Oil used for in car care?
Lubrication, gloss enhancement, carrier
Is Mineral Oil a VOC?
No. Mineral Oil is not classified as a volatile organic compound (VOC).
Is Mineral Oil on California's Proposition 65 list?
No. Mineral Oil is not on California's Proposition 65 list.

20 products contain this

Related

Health and environment notes translate the manufacturer Safety Data Sheet, the GHS classification, and authoritative regulatory listings (California Prop 65, EPA). Not medical advice. They describe the ingredient itself; whether a hazard applies to a finished product depends on its concentration and how it's used.